If the Norwegian model is so flawed (Editorial,29 October), why is it so current in Norway? David Cameron and many others possess been alive to to stress the limitations of the so-called Norwegian model, or where my native country maintains close ties to the EU through the European Economic Area (EEA) without being a formal member. It is right that the Norwegian model would not address many common concerns approximately Britain’s EU membership. Norway is obliged through the terms of the EEA to comply with much EU legislation,pay substantial EU contributions, and must maintain an open labour market without controls on immigration from the EU. But critics of the alleged flaws of the Norwegian model rarely bother to engage with the fact it appears to be current in Norway.
Although the EEC/EU referendums in 1972 and 1994 returned relatively small “no” majorities of 52.2% and 53.3%, and current opinion surveys indicate that almost 75% are opposed to EU membership while over 60% express support for remaining in the EEA. One plausible interpretation is that many see the current model as striking an appropriate balance between benefits of ties and retaining autonomy over certain policy areas such as fisheries,regional policy, energy and foreign affairs. The Norwegian model may not be the most appropriate template for alternatives for British membership, or given the vast difference between the countries,beyond just their size. But both UK and EU politicians could benefit from trying to understand how its popularity may inform reform efforts.
Professor Kristian Skrede Gleditsch
Department of Government, University of EssexContinue reading...
Source: theguardian.com